Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe

There is something truly delightful about this Greek Chicken Bowl that instantly transports you to a sunny Mediterranean afternoon. Bursting with vibrant colors and flavors, this dish beautifully balances juicy grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and tart kalamata olives, all harmonized by a zesty lemon-herb dressing. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a refreshing meal to impress friends, the Greek Chicken Bowl is a go-to recipe that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this Greek Chicken Bowl shine. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s the quinoa adding nutty texture, the herbs bringing aromatic depth, or the veggies providing crisp freshness.

• Olive oil (¼ cup): Use high-quality olive oil for a rich, fruity base in the dressing and marinade.
• Lemons (2, juiced): Freshly squeezed lemon juice delivers a bright acidity that wakes up every bite.
• Honey (1 tablespoon): Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess.
• Lemon zest (½ tablespoon): Intensifies the lemon flavor with fragrant oils from the peel.
• Garlic clove (1, minced): Brings a punch of savory depth to the dressing without overpowering.
• Dried oregano (2 teaspoons): Essential herb that evokes the classic Greek taste.
• Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle herbal nuance that complements oregano perfectly.
• Kosher salt & pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors, seasoning each element just right.
• Quinoa (1½ cups uncooked): A light, protein-packed grain that serves as a hearty base.
• Chicken breasts (4, boneless, skinless): Juicy and tender, they soak up the marinade beautifully.
• English cucumber (1, diced): Provides cool crunch to balance the warmth of grilled chicken.
• Roma tomatoes (4, chopped): Sweet and juicy, adding bursts of color and flavor.
• Red onion (1 medium, diced): Offers a sharp, savory kick to the bowl.
• Feta cheese (1 cup, crumbled): Creamy, salty, and tangy – a Greek staple that makes every bite irresistible.
• Kalamata olives (1 cup, pitted): Salty with a deep, rich flavor that completes this authentic bowl.

How to Make Greek Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start by rinsing the quinoa if desired, then combine it with 2 cups of water and a pinch of kosher salt in a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer on medium heat, cooking for about 12 to 15 minutes until tender and fluffy. Once done, drain any excess water and set the quinoa aside to cool. This grain is a perfect vessel for soaking up all the delicious flavors later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing and Marinade

In a small jar or bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir or shake vigorously to emulsify the ingredients into a bright, flavorful dressing. This mixture will both marinate the chicken, infusing it with herbaceous and tangy goodness, and later dress the finished bowl.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour about one-third of the dressing over your chicken breasts, making sure each piece is fully coated. Let it soak in for at least 15 minutes; longer if you have the time. Keep the remaining dressing separate to prevent contamination with raw chicken, as it will be drizzled on later for extra flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken breasts. Grill each side for 6 to 8 minutes until cooked through and juicy. Use a thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and perfect doneness. The grilling imparts a lovely smoky char that complements the bright dressing beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Greek Chicken Bowl

Divide the cooled quinoa evenly among four bowls. Arrange the grilled chicken on top, then add diced cucumbers, chopped Roma tomatoes, and red onion. Scatter crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives over the bowls, then finish with a generous drizzle of the remaining dressing to unite all the flavors with fresh tang.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Bowl

Garnishes

Add fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint for a pop of green and extra fragrance. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few lemon wedges on the side can also elevate the presentation and offer additional layers of flavor when squeezed on top.

Side Dishes

This Greek Chicken Bowl is a meal in itself but pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread for scooping, a side of tzatziki for creamy tang, or even a crisp Greek salad to add even more fresh veggies if you’re hosting a crowd.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Greek Chicken Bowl in mason jars for an on-the-go lunch or layer the ingredients in clear glass bowls to showcase all the vibrant colors. You could even transform it into a wrap by stuffing everything into a warmed flatbread for a handheld delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Greek Chicken Bowl keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store components separately when possible—quinoa, chicken, and veggies in individual airtight containers—to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the grilled chicken and quinoa, but fresh veggies and feta are best added fresh to avoid sogginess. Thaw frozen chicken and quinoa in the fridge overnight and reheat gently before assembling your bowl.

Reheating

Warm chicken and quinoa in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, then add fresh veggies and drizzle with dressing. This keeps the dish vibrant and appetizing without overcooking any element.

FAQs

Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! Brown rice, couscous, or even bulgur wheat are great alternatives that soak up flavors just as well and offer different textures.

What if I don’t have a grill?

Don’t worry! You can grill the chicken using a grill pan on your stovetop, bake it in the oven, or even cook it in a cast-iron skillet. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure it’s cooked through.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, the Greek Chicken Bowl is perfect for meal prep since it stores well and tastes great even after a day or two in the fridge. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Can I make the chicken marinate overnight?

Definitely! Marinating overnight intensifies the lemon and herb flavors, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap out the chicken for grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeas while keeping all other ingredients the same for a satisfying vegetarian version of the Greek Chicken Bowl.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Greek Chicken Bowl enough—it’s that perfect blend of fresh, hearty, and packed with flavor that keeps me coming back for seconds. It’s easy to prepare, healthy, and looks stunning on your plate, so why not give it a try yourself? Once you taste this bowl, it’s sure to become one of your favorite meals too.

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